Here’s a visualization of IBM Rational Developer for i (RDi) in action—showing its modern, graphical interface built on the Eclipse platform.
What Is RDi (Rational Developer for i)?
IBM Rational Developer for i (RDi) is a modern, Eclipse-based Integrated Development Environment (IDE) designed for developing and maintaining applications on the IBM i platform (formerly AS/400). It serves as a powerful, graphical alternative to the older green-screen tools like SEU, PDM, and SDA.(IBM, ARCAD Software)
Key Strengths and Why Use RDi
1. Boosts Developer Productivity
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Seamless source editing with color syntax highlighting, outline view, and content assist features (auto-completion).(nicklitten.com, AS400 ISeries)
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Integrated features like Remote System Explorer (RSE) allow navigation, editing, and compiling directly on the IBM i system.(AS400 ISeries, IBM)
2. Enhanced Collaboration & Lifecycle Integration
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Integrates with IBM Rational Team Concert (RTC), enabling source control, agile planning, build automation, and team collaboration.(IBM, AS400 ISeries)
3. Greater Business Agility & Modernization
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Supports traditional languages (RPG, COBOL, CL, DDS, C/C++, SQL) plus modern approaches through Java or EGL editions.(IBM, Arbor Solutions, AS400 ISeries)
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Leverages a unified, graphical IDE which reduces training time and lowers the learning curve.(AS400 ISeries, IBM)
4. Flexible Licensing and Packaging
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Available in multiple editions:
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RPG & COBOL Tools
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RPG & COBOL + Modernization Tools (Java or EGL editions)
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Full-feature editions include advanced modernization capabilities.(IBM, Arbor Solutions)
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5. Support for Analysis and Structuring
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Offers visual program structure analysis, error list views, and an outline that shows subroutines, subprocedures, and flags—helping better understand complex logic.(AS400 ISeries, nicklitten.com)
6. Third-Party and SCM Integration
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Supports integration with change-management tools like TD/OMS within RDi, offering improved compilation, artifact views, and streamlined workflows.(Remain Software)
RDi vs VS Code for IBM i Development
| Feature | RDi | VS Code (with IBM i Extensions) |
|---|---|---|
| Native IBM i Integration | Deep integration with compilers, error tracking, database | Requires extensions; less integrated, but improving |
| Debugging & Object Management | Full-fledged tools out of the box | Possible via plugins, but not as mature |
| Cost | Commercial license (trial available) | Free and lightweight |
| IDE Experience | Rich, specialized for IBM i | Flexible, extensible, multi-platform |
While VS Code is gaining popularity due to its flexibility and zero cost, RDi remains the go-to for deeper IBM i integration and complex enterprise needs.
Community Insight (Reddit)
The IBM i community often refers to RDi as IBM’s flagship IDE:
“Rational Developer for i (RDi) is IBM's flagship IDE for IBM i.”(Reddit)
That affirms its leading role for professional IBM i development.
Summary: RDi Strengths at a Glance
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Modern coding experience: Syntax highlighting, autocomplete, outline views
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Seamless IBM i connectivity: RSE for remote editing and compiling
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Lifecycle management: Built-in support for source control and collaboration
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Rich analysis tools: Error lists, visual program structure, refactoring
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Customization and integration: SCM support like TD/OMS and adaptable workflows
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Multiple editions: Tailored for various modernization and development needs
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Mature tool for enterprises: Especially when deep IBM integration and debugging are critical
Let me know if you'd like to dive deeper into any specific RDi feature—such as refactoring, debugging, integration setup, or how it handles SQL and web services development—I’m happy to help!